'Real candidate for change'

SHNEUR ODZE, UKIP candidate

UKIP's candidate in the Greater Manchester mayoral elections is pledging to be the "real change candidate" for the whole of the region.

The elections for Greater Manchester's first elected mayor take place on May 4.

Shneur Odze has outlined a post-Brexit vision for a "fairer, more prosperous and inclusive future for all."

Mr Odze has regularly stood in Salford council elections for UKIP. He was also a Conservative councillor in Hackney, London, and ran to be UKIP candidate in the 2015 London mayoral selection process.

He is opposed to the controversial Greater Manchester Spatial Framework, which could see homes being built on the region's green belt.

He has also pledged to promote Greater Manchester to the world and bring about a cheaper transport system.

Mr Odze said: "If elected mayor, I pledge to oppose cuts to front line services, including keeping open the 10 police stations Labour are currently closing, and ensure no more downgrading of local hospitals or outsourcing of social care to private companies.

"I will protect our green belt, and stand up to major house builders, by scrapping the Spatial Framework and drafting a new one, which will be written by communities through genuine consultation.

"I will support councils, housing associations and co-op groups to build sustainable and affordable housing.

"As Mayor, I will promote Greater Manchester to the world, bringing in trade and tourists, taking advantage of the many opportunities Brexit brings.

"I pledge to be the most open and transparent administration in all we, and our partners, do I will encourage this to be implemented across both the public and private sectors. I also pledge to protect and champion whistle-blowers.

"I will oppose any attempt to introduce the congestion charge and other anti-car measures. I will have a review of transport, with a view to bringing in an 'oyster card' type system, so we have a cheaper and properly integrated system. I will say no to HS2, and demand the money is spent on local and regional transport.

"Most importantly to people's pockets, I pledge to not increase the council tax by more than inflation."